StarGold^™ C-15 and C-20 Argon Carbon Dioxide Blends

Linde’s argon mixtures containing more than 15% but less than 20% CO₂ by volume (StarGold C-15 and C-20) can be used with a variety of wire types when joining carbon and low alloy steels. Within the range of these blends, it is still possible to obtain a fine droplet spray transfer with minimum spatter and high deposition rates while using slightly higher voltage levels.

These blends work well for joining sheet metal as well as thicker plate. Increasing the CO₂ content increases penetration and generally produces greater travel speeds. For thinner material, it is important to balance increased penetration against the potential for possible burnthrough. Increasing the CO₂ content of the blend generally results in a more convex weld bead and greater surface oxide, but wetting of the weld metal is enhanced. Slightly above 20% CO₂ conventional spray transfer can not be readily achieved, causing increased spatter while improving sidewall fusion.

Linde’s StarGold C-15 and C-20 gas blends can be used with solid, some specially formulated flux-cored, and most metal-cored wires. If flux-cored wire is selected, care must be taken in the choice of the wire and gas blend combination to ensure compatibility and optimum weld performance and properties.

Refer to manufacturer’s literature for recommended shielding gas and filler metal combination.